DIY Furnace Troubleshooting in Calgary: A Guide to Common Issues and Solutions


With Calgary’s cold winters, a reliable furnace is essential for keeping your home warm. But what do you do if your furnace isn’t working as it should? Before calling a technician, there are a few simple troubleshooting steps you can try. At Shift Heating & Cooling Services, we understand the importance of a properly functioning furnace, so here’s a DIY guide to troubleshoot common furnace issues.


Safety First: Turn Off Power Before Troubleshooting

Before attempting any furnace troubleshooting, ensure safety by turning off power to the furnace. Locate the switch near the unit, usually on the side of the furnace, or turn off the breaker at your electrical panel. This prevents accidents and ensures a safe environment for your inspection.


1. Check Your Thermostat Settings

Sometimes the solution is as simple as adjusting the thermostat. Here’s how to check:

  • Set to Heat: Ensure the thermostat is set to “heat” and not “cool” or “off.”
  • Increase Temperature: Raise the temperature setting a few degrees to see if the furnace kicks on.
  • Check Batteries: If your thermostat is battery-powered, replace the batteries. Low batteries can cause issues with communication between the thermostat and furnace.
  • Verify Fan Setting: Set the fan to “AUTO” rather than “ON” to ensure it only runs when heating is needed.

If adjusting the thermostat doesn’t solve the issue, move on to other troubleshooting steps.


2. Replace or Clean the Air Filter

A clogged air filter is one of the most common causes of furnace issues. When the filter is dirty, it restricts airflow, causing the furnace to overheat or shut down.

  • Inspect the Filter: Remove the filter from the furnace and check for dust and dirt buildup.
  • Replace or Clean: If the filter looks dirty, replace it with a new one or clean it (for reusable filters).
  • Regular Replacement: In Calgary, it’s recommended to change your filter every 1-3 months during the winter season, especially if you have pets or allergies.

A clean filter improves airflow, helps your furnace run more efficiently, and improves indoor air quality.


3. Check the Furnace Power and Circuit Breaker

If your furnace isn’t turning on at all, there could be an issue with its power supply:

  • Ensure Furnace Switch Is On: There’s typically a power switch near the furnace. Make sure it’s in the “on” position.
  • Inspect Circuit Breaker: Go to your electrical panel and check if the furnace breaker has tripped. If it has, reset it by flipping the switch off and then on again.

If the circuit breaker continues to trip, it could be due to a more serious electrical issue, and you should contact a professional for further inspection.


4. Inspect the Pilot Light or Ignition System

For gas furnaces, the pilot light or electronic ignition system is essential for operation. Here’s how to check for issues:

  • Pilot Light: If your furnace has a pilot light, make sure it’s lit. If it’s out, follow your furnace’s manual for relighting it. The flame should be blue—if it’s yellow or flickering, it may indicate a problem with gas flow or combustion.
  • Electronic Ignition: For furnaces with electronic ignition, check for error codes displayed on the furnace control panel. Some codes can indicate issues with the ignitor, which may require a professional’s help.

If you’re unsure how to proceed with pilot light or ignition issues, it’s best to call a technician to avoid safety risks.


5. Listen for Unusual Noises

Strange noises coming from your furnace can indicate specific issues. Here are common sounds and what they may mean:

  • Banging or Popping: This can happen if the burners are dirty, causing delayed ignition. It can also be due to expanding ductwork.
  • Rattling: Rattling sounds may mean loose screws, panels, or duct connections.
  • Squealing: A squealing noise is often caused by a worn blower motor belt or issues with the motor bearings.

If your furnace is making unusual noises, it may need cleaning or a part replacement. DIY fixes for noises include tightening loose screws and ensuring all panels are secure.


6. Check Furnace Flame Color

For gas furnaces, the flame color is a useful indicator of furnace health:

  • Blue Flame: A blue flame is ideal and indicates proper combustion.
  • Yellow or Orange Flame: This could mean there’s a gas leak or incomplete combustion, which is a serious issue. If you see a yellow flame, turn off your furnace and call a professional immediately to check for gas leaks.

Always prioritize safety and avoid attempting DIY repairs with the gas line or burners.


7. Inspect Air Vents and Registers

Blocked vents and registers restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder than necessary. Here’s how to check your vents:

  • Clear Obstructions: Ensure no furniture, rugs, or curtains are covering vents or registers.
  • Keep All Vents Open: Closing vents in unused rooms may seem like an energy-saving tactic, but it can disrupt airflow and pressure, reducing efficiency and causing stress on the furnace.

Maintaining clear vents helps the furnace distribute warm air evenly, making your home more comfortable.


8. Reset the Furnace

If you’ve tried other troubleshooting steps and the furnace still isn’t working, a simple reset might resolve the issue:

  • Locate the Reset Button: Most furnaces have a reset button near the motor. Check your furnace’s manual for its location.
  • Press and Hold: Press and hold the reset button for about 30 seconds, then release it.
  • Wait and Listen: After resetting, listen for the furnace to start up. If it doesn’t, try resetting once more.

If resetting the furnace doesn’t help, a deeper issue may be causing the problem, and it’s best to call in a professional.


9. Clean Furnace Components

Dust and debris can cause operational issues in various furnace components, especially after months of inactivity:

  • Blower Fan: Dust buildup on the blower fan can reduce airflow and efficiency. Carefully vacuum around the fan if it’s accessible, or schedule a professional cleaning.
  • Burner Assembly: Dust on the burners can cause inefficient combustion. If you notice dust buildup on the burners, it’s best to have a technician clean them, as it requires a safe, professional approach.
  • Air Intake Pipe: Check the air intake pipe outside your home to make sure it’s clear of snow, leaves, and other debris.

Keeping components clean helps improve airflow, efficiency, and furnace performance during winter.


When to Call a Professional

DIY troubleshooting can resolve many common furnace issues, but some situations require professional attention. Call a technician if:

  • You smell gas or suspect a leak.
  • The pilot light or ignition system won’t stay lit.
  • The furnace continuously trips the circuit breaker.
  • You see a yellow or orange flame.
  • You hear persistent or loud noises that DIY fixes can’t resolve.
  • The furnace doesn’t turn on after a reset.

Professional maintenance and repairs ensure safe and efficient operation, giving you peace of mind during Calgary’s winter months.


Furnace Troubleshooting with Shift Heating & Cooling Services

If you’re unable to fix your furnace issues with DIY troubleshooting, Shift Heating & Cooling Services is here to help. Our certified technicians have the expertise to handle a wide range of furnace problems and ensure your system is ready for the cold season. We provide:

  • 24/7 emergency repair services
  • Comprehensive diagnostics and repairs
  • Routine maintenance and tune-ups
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Conclusion: DIY Furnace Troubleshooting for a Warm Calgary Winter

DIY furnace troubleshooting can resolve many common issues, saving you time and money. By following these steps, you can keep your furnace running smoothly and enjoy a warm, comfortable winter. Remember, if the issue persists or you’re dealing with a complex problem, it’s best to call a professional to ensure safe and effective repairs.

Need professional furnace help? Contact Shift Heating & Cooling Services today to schedule a repair or maintenance service, and let us keep your home cozy all winter long!

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